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FIRST DRIVE: 2010 KIA Soul - a new way to roll The Kia Soul is the new motoring King of Cool. Along with rivals Nissan Cube and Scion xB, this new breed of youthful rides are the motoring equivalent of the iPod and X-Box. Customizable to the individual tastes and personality of the owner, this is a genuine youth car. You likely wont see the Kia Soul being towed behind the motorhomes of retirees. Instead, it'll find its rightful place in High School and University parking lots, hip clubs and anywhere else Gen-Y hangs out. Its "new way to roll" speaks the language of the youth market. Powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that makes 122-hp (a 142-hp 2-liter is available), the Soul gets 31-mpg highway and still feels sporty and powerful. Inside is cool and modern - houndstooth fabric, iPod interface, back-lit speakers, and more. Prices range from $14,000 up to $18,595 for a fully-loaded model (our test car), making it truly affordable for its intended buyers. |
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ROAD TEST: 2009 Toyota Venza - all in one Toyota has shaken-up the car-crossover segment with the Venza, a capable "all in one" package. The pundits were too quick to label the Venza as a bland grocery-getter. In either factory trim or SportLux tuner machine, the Venza is a standout new kind of car that turns in a great performance every drive. Think of Venza as three vehicles in one - a comfortable passenger car, a capable SUV, and a spacious minivan. Whatever you call it - car or wagon or crossover - it's by far the most versatile and good looking of any I've driven. Prices range from $25,975 up to $29,250; Engine choices are a 182-hp 2.7-liter 4-cyl, and a 268-hp 3.5-liter 6-cyl. (tested), mated to a 6-speed auto, in either front or all-wheel drive, and it gets from 19-mpg up to 30-mpg depending on options. |
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ROAD TEST: 2009 Dodge Caliber SXT The 2009 Dodge Caliber SXT is a great example of a car that under-promises and over-delivers. Absent of much of the advertising shrill of other lesser makes, the Caliber SXT quietly and competently exceeds expectations of the segment - great looks, ample power, abundant interior room and comfort - all with great value (see link below for pricing - special employee pricing is in effect now) while turning in 30-mpg on the highway. Caliber SXT stands out because of its unique good looks and value. Its can-do ability and aggressive looks combine to make it stand out in the crowd. Powered by a smooth 2.0L engine and a surprisingly well behaved continuous-variable transaxle, its a pleasure to behold and command on the road. For less than most used cars, you can own a brand-new Dodge Caliber SXT. If you're considering a small SUV, you owe it to yourself test drive the Caliber. You're in for a number of pleasant surprises, and a fun drive!
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FIRST DRIVE: 2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid Sedan Without a doubt the Toyota Prius is the game changer in the automotive world. The new 2010 Toyota Prius goes on sale late May 2009, with prices ranging from $21,000 base up $27,270 with every option. A friend of mine owns the Gen 2 Prius - which his young son calls "Daddy's Spaceship." This new 3rd generation Prius is all that spaceship and more - this time with rooftop solar panels and better fuel economy - expect 50-mpg average. Driving the 2010 Prius is a joy - better handling and power, quieter and roomier interior, and enhanced styling inside and out. It has nicer, sportier looking front grille, and
the back is cleaner. The lines are bold, and it has a look and feel of more "heft" than prior models. |
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ROAD TEST: 2009 Dodge Avenger R/T It's rare that test vehicle that I drive actually lines up with the marketing and advertising vibe of that same car. After testing the new 2008 Dodge Avenger R/T, Dodge got it so right that it's fitting to share the commercial that - to me - sums it up nicely. On top of distinctive, aggressive styling, the Avenger R/T serves up some really cool features - the "Cool Zone" drink cooler and center console drink cooler/warmer. Added to a long list of surprising touches and features that you'd expect to find in a car costing much more then the Avenger R/T price (starting at $25,415 - $30,640 as tested with leather and navigation). The proof any car is in the driving - and the Avenger R/T is joy to drive. Ample power from the 3.5-liter engine, great overall driving performance, and a comfortable, quiet cabin combine to turn even the most mundane commute into at least a fun trip. All while turning in respectable 27-mpg. |
Always be a safe and courteous driver. Buckle everyone up, never drive impaired, and obey all motor vehicle laws. Vehicles featured are tested by a professional driver in a controlled environment, never attempt any maneuver described and never exceed your own driving ability. Opinions expressed are those of The Weekend Drive®. In producing our road tests, we may attend manufacturer-sponsored events, which selected members of the motoring press are also invited, and we recieve no compensation from any vehicle manufacturer. Warranties, miles per gallon estimates, and other technical information is provided by vehicle manufacturers and is deemed reliable upon release date. The Weekend Drive® is not a dealer or broker of vehicles and makes no offer to sell or lease motor vehicles. Trademarks and trade names used are the property of their respective owners, used by permission.
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